Cassius Clay, who later changed his name to Muhammad Ali, was a legendary boxer and one of the most prominent and influential figures in Black history. Born in 1942 in Louisville, Kentucky, Ali rose to fame as an Olympic gold medalist and three-time heavyweight champion of the world.

Ali was known not only for his impressive boxing skills but also for his outspoken activism and advocacy for civil rights. He famously refused to be drafted into the Vietnam War, citing his religious beliefs and opposition to the war. As a result, he was stripped of his world title and faced a five-year ban from boxing. However, Ali fought back and took his case all the way to the Supreme Court, where he ultimately won a unanimous decision in his favor.

Throughout his career, Ali continued to use his platform to speak out against racial injustice and promote social change. He was a prominent supporter of the Civil Rights Movement and a friend and ally of leaders such as Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr. Ali's charisma, skill, and fearless activism made him a beloved figure not only in the world of sports but in the broader landscape of American culture and history. He passed away in 2016, leaving behind a powerful legacy of courage, resilience, and determination in the fight for equality and justice.